Bode George Condemns State of Emergency in Rivers, Calls It Disrespect for Authority

Bode George Condemns State of Emergency in Rivers, Calls It Disrespect for Authority

Former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as a blatant disregard for constitutional authority.

George denounced the move, calling it “reckless and unconstitutional.” He questioned the justification for the emergency rule, stating that Governor Siminalayi Fubara had remained calm despite lacking control over security agencies.

“This is absolute Armageddon—total disrespect for constituted authority. The Constitution has been viciously violated,” George stated.

Drawing parallels to past political crises, he warned that the move resembled the political turmoil of 1962 and 1983, alleging that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was using unconstitutional means to take control of states.

He also questioned the legality of the decision, asking whether Tinubu sought National Assembly approval before making the declaration.

“What happened in Rivers is the hand of Esau and the voice of Jacob. Why didn’t he declare a state of emergency in Lagos when lawmakers were fighting?” George asked.

He further criticized the timing, questioning why the President had met with Niger Delta leaders and former Governor Alfred Diete-Spiff just days before taking the drastic step.

Concluding his remarks, George raised concerns about Tinubu’s leadership style, asking, “Is Tinubu now becoming a civilian dictator?”